Crystal Lake specialists offer advanced treatment for allergy related conditions like asthma
It’s no coincidence the National Institutes of Health reports 60 percent of American asthmatics have an allergy, and that at least 30 percent of adult-onset asthma cases are triggered by allergens.
Asthma and allergy frequently go hand-in-hand; asthma can be a complication of allergies, or an allergen like dust mites can set off or trigger asthmatic symptoms.
Allergy symptoms are set off when your immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance (like pollen) as an invader.
To protect from this perceived unwanted visitor, the immune system releases chemicals (histamine) that result in the typical allergy signs – congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes.
For some, this allergic reaction not only affects the nose, eyes and mouth but the lungs and airways, resulting in the signs of asthma such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
Environmental and lifestyle changes, drugs, inhalers, and therapies may be designed to treat asthma or allergy; however, some options manage both conditions at one time, including:
- Leukotriene modifier – Taken once a day, this pill controls the chemicals released during an allergic reaction. Singulair is a common brand name.
- Allergy shots – By injecting a tiny amount of the allergen each week or every other week, this immunotherapy can build your immune system’s tolerance to these substances, accordingly reducing your body’s response to triggers. By doing so, symptoms affecting your respiratory tract are relieved, just as symptoms affecting other parts of your body may be diminished.
- Anti-immunoglobulin E therapy – The antibodies signaling the release of that symptom-inducing histamine go by the preceding name (abbreviated IgE). A medication sold under the name Xolair can block the IgE antibodies that trigger the histamine and, accordingly, the allergic reaction resulting in asthmatic effects.
Keep in mind that certain allergens are more commonly responsible for asthma than others, including mold, pollen, and pet dander. These substances may be difficult to avoid, but can be controlled through actions such as regular cleaning of bedding, and the introduction of dehumidifiers in moist areas such as basements.
If your family has a history of allergic asthma, there is a good chance you will develop the condition, or have had it in childhood and may experience it again at an older age.
Our specialists can pair you with the most advanced allergy treatment in Crystal Lake – a safe and effective option with the added benefit of preventing or halting symptoms of other related conditions, including asthma. Call our team at Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates and Food Allergy Center of Illinois at (847) 888-8802.
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